National data opt-out

The national data opt-out is a service that allows patients to opt out of their confidential patient information being used for research and planning.

COVID-19: National data opt-out compliance deadline extended

The health and social care system is going to face significant pressures in the coming months due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Staff will need to work in different ways than usual and we want to ensure that they can focus on responding to these events.

We have, therefore, made the decision to extend the compliance deadline for the national data opt-out for six months up to 30 September 2020, at which point we will review the position.

The national data opt-out was introduced on 25 May 2018, enabling patients to opt out from the use of their data for research or planning purposes, in line with the recommendations of the National Data Guardian in her Review of Data Security, Consent and Opt-Outs.

Patients can view or change their national data opt-out choice at any time by using the online service at www.nhs.uk/your-nhs-data-matters or by calling 0300 3035678.

By 2020 all health and care organisations are required to be compliant with the national data opt-out policy. NHS Digital and Public Health England are already compliant and are applying national data opt-outs.